Nepal bids final adieu to renowned cine artist with state honor

Xinhua

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The Nepal government has conferred state honor to its deceased cine artist Shree Kishna Shrestha, who passed away last Saturday night and was cremated Monday evening, according to sources.

The Nepali heart-winner Kollywood (Nepali film industry) hero succumbed while undergoing treatment for pneumonia at New Delhi- based Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. The 46-year old actor was also diagnosed with bone cancer a week before his death.

A group of Nepal Army personnel played condolence music and offered 10-bullet salute before the body of this ever-green hero was put into funeral pyre.

This is the first time that the Nepali government conferred state honor to any artist. Shrestha's body was brought to Kathmandu Monday afternoon at around 2 p.m. from New Delhi and had been placed at Nepal Academy for final tributes.

Nepal's Information and Communication Minister, Minendra Rijal, top politicians, businessmen, artists and film makers, as well as huge number of fans, reached the place to bid final adieu to the late actor.

Shrestha, who has appeared in more than 100 films, has a secured special place in Nepali film industry and among the Nepali audience due to his sober attitude, clean character, romantic roles and proficiency in dancing skills.

Shrestha began his acting carrier some 25 years ago and married Sweta Khadka, his long time girl-friend, on July 7, this year.

Firl "Kohinoor", which was performed and produced by Shrestha and his wife Khadka, has been released from last Friday in Nepali halls.

Meanwhile, Nepal's Prime Minister has expressed grief over the sudden death of the popular cine star. "I am stunned at the untimely demise of popular cine star, Shree Krishna Shrestha," said Koirala.